Sorry Cut-Offs: It's All About Long Shorts This Summer

Knee-length is it.

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Updated on 06/09/21

Woman wearing long denim shorts — Getty Images/Edward Berthelot

Shorts are notorious for stirring up mixed emotions. But most often, the ultra-short kind feels most problematic. In hot yoga? Sure, they’re a thing. Anywhere else, they’re not exactly comfortable or chic. This summer, however, marks a momentous occasion—long shorts are the biggest trend when it comes to abbreviated hems. Yes, indeed, knee-length Bermudas, pleated mid-thigh styles, and elongated sweat shorts are a few of the season’s must-try styles. Of course, long leather shorts are major, too.

No matter the iteration that speaks to you, each one effortlessly pairs with simple tanks, comfy tees, and other feminine tops you might be eyeing, like a playful puff sleeve or square neckline. Bottom line: they’re super easy to wear. And before you get too paralyzed by the thought of jorts or chino-esque designs approved by school dress codes, let us assure you the latest versions are as fun as they are fashion-forward. Yes, even the denim ones.

Don’t be afraid to shop for long shorts with unisex brands or in the men’s section. Sizing up for a slouchier fit is helpful too.

It’s mostly about fit and styling—looser silhouettes result in laissez-faire freshness, as do of-the-moment extras like oversize blazers, kitten heels, and piled-on gold jewelry. If things still sound unsightly, let the 27 pairs of long shorts ahead convince you otherwise.

Limerick Short

Wilfred Limerick Short $110.00

What sounds better in the heat than drapey Japanese crepe fabric with a hint of stretch? We’re sold.

Talia Shorts

Solid & Striped Talia Shorts $188.00

Does it get more idyllic than light pink gingham shorts made from a cotton-linen blend for summer? Quick answer: no.

Ambrosio Short

Citizens of Humanity Ambrosio Short $158.00

Raw and tattered hems instantly take the stiffness out of long denim shorts.

Linen-Cotton Pleated Mid-Length Shorts

Madewell Linen-Cotton Pleated Mid-Length Shorts $80.00

Depending on your legginess, these shorts will hit anywhere from mid-thigh to just above the knee. In any case, we love them with timeless staples like a cropped cardigan or fitted tank.

Cargo Shorts

Zara Cargo Shorts $70.00

Bring a playful vibe to these utilitarian shorts by teaming yours with a punchy top in a solid or print.

Boxing Fleece Short

Agolde Boxing Fleece Short $128.00

Three words: ultra-soft terry.

Bello Linen Short

Reformation Bello Linen Short $128.00

Smarten up your go-to white top with this pair of mid-thigh-skimming pinstripe shorts.

Relaxed-Fit Shorts

COS Relaxed-Fit Shorts $69.00

With a relaxed fit and jaunty hue, these shorts are guaranteed to brighten your day.

Wide Leg Short

Vince Wide Leg Short $265.00

Minimalists, meet your perfectly sleek long short for summer, crafted from an Italian linen blend.

Priscila Plush Shorts

Tach Clothing Priscila Plush Shorts $131.00

If you can’t entirely quit the soft aesthetic, look no further than these plush floral shorts with a stretchy elastic waist.

Bermuda Vegan Shorts

Pastiche Bermuda Vegan Shorts $101.00

Leather shorts for summer might seem insane, but in the case of this summer-weight vegan fabric, they’re anything but.

The Paperbag Short

Everlane The Paperbag Short $55.00

Organic cotton + navy stripes = summer short perfection.

Crochet Diamond Linen Pleated Short

Rebecca Taylor Crochet Diamond Linen Pleated Short $225.00

Channel a lined-in vintage vibe with this delicate pair of embroidered linen shorts.

High-Rise Shorts

Who What Wear High-Rise Shorts $25.00

Embrace your boldest self by opting for this blooming pair of high-rise shorts.

Linen-Blend High-Waist Shorts

Mango Linen-Blend High-Waist Shorts $60.00

The only way to do summer suiting this season? With this pale pink linen set featuring mid-thigh shorts.

Good '90s Bermuda

Good American Good '90s Bermuda $149.00

These '90s-inspired Bermudas give jorts stylish new meaning.

Drew Shorts

Lacausa Drew Shorts $95.00

There’s no long short better suited to balmy temps than this swishy pair cut from natural linen. Bonus: they’re elasticized for added comfort.

Casia Alexa Shorts

Hosbjerg Casia Alexa Shorts $137.00

If blue jean Bermuda shorts aren’t for you, how about this punchy red and orange gradient print?

Juniper Linen Easy Pull-On Shorts

Universal Standard Juniper Linen Easy Pull-On Shorts $74.00

Whether you’re dressed up or chilled out, these white linen pull-on shorts epitomize the warm-weather season.

Les Deux Short Ligne Check

Faithfull The Brand Les Deux Short Ligne Check $169.00

We love these checked linen shorts with the matching top for a cute-n'-coordinated summer look.

Ally High-Waisted Short

Urban Outfitters Ally High-Waisted Short $44.00

Whether you’re at the beach or channeling the vibe, these shorts give off a hang-ten vibe.

Made & Crafted Column Shorts

Levi's Made & Crafted Column Shorts $128.00

For a summer day date, these shorts are flawless with a white top and sandals.

FP Beach WFH Shorts

Free People FP Beach WFH Shorts $40.00

For the perfect half-dressed ‘fit, pair these terry shorts with a cute top, minimal bodysuit, or oversize button-down.

Ritual Flared Shorts

Permanent Vacation Ritual Flared Shorts $112.00

Does it get more cheerful than crinkly yellow shorts? We think not.

Bermuda Shorts

H&M+ Bermuda Shorts $25.00

Black shorts, for summer? We’re into it. Pair them with a playful top and jewelry for the perfect evening look.

Tie-Dye Bball Shorts

Abacaxi Tie-Dye Bball Shorts $200.00

Live your best tie-dye life in these super oversized sweat shorts, made in small batches by artisans in India.

Tuva Crinkle Shorts

The Frankie Shop Tuva Crinkle Shorts $114.00

Summerweight leather does exist—case in point, these roomy drawstring shorts from cult boutique, The Frankie Shop.

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